Hornets' Salaun Faces Make-or-Break Season

0:00On April 2-8, the Charlotte Hornet surprised everyone with a strong 2025-26 season, speeding up their rebuild and putting. Former number 6 pick, Tijane Salon in a tough spot. This 20-year-old forward hasn't lived up to lottery expectations yet, barely cracking the rotation, and dealing with a late-season injury. Now heading into his third year, it's make or break time for him and Charlotte. They drafted Salon knowing he'd be raw, banking on his length, athleticism, and defensive potential to pay off down the line. His shooting took a big leap this year, hitting 50.3% from the field, and 43.4% from 3 on low volume. That's progress from his rookie struggles, but is not enough to lock in minutes. Defensively though, he's still a work in progress, losing focus off the ball and becoming a liability at NBA speed. Other guys like Musa Diabade, Sion James, and Ryan Cockburner stepped up big, earning spots alongside returning Vets Josh Green and Grant Williams.

1:01Salon got chances during injury waves in December and January, but couldn't separate himself, heading back to the G-League. The Hornets flip from a 4-14 start to over-achieving, so they're pushing to compete now instead of tanking for picks. That means even tougher competition next season, especially with possible new first rounders or signings. Charlotte's got a club option on him for 2027-28, worth over $10 million. Salon's got one shot to prove he's foundational, or the Hornets might move on and reshape the wing rotation around proven pieces. You've been listening to Charlotte Hornets news today, AI-powered team coverage.